Kenyan President and First Lady Cheer on WNBA Star Madina Okot at New York Game

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto showed their support for Kenyan-born WNBA star Madina Okot as she played for the Atlanta Dream against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The President and the First Lady watched the game courtside, taking in the excitement of the match. Okot, who was selected 13th overall by Atlanta in the 2026 WNBA Draft, had a chance to share the court with her compatriots' President and First Lady.

The Atlanta Dream won the game 83-65, with Okot playing for just over two minutes and recording one rebound. Despite her limited playing time, Okot was thrilled to have the President and First Lady in attendance, describing Ruto's presence as an honour. She believes his support could open up opportunities for other Kenyan girls in sports. The President's attendance at the game was a notable moment for Okot and the Kenyan basketball community.

President Ruto is in New York for the 81st United Nations General Assembly and took time to attend the match to watch and support Okot. His presence at the game highlights the importance of promoting sports and supporting Kenyan athletes on the international stage. The President's visit to the game was a special moment for Okot, who is continuing her debut WNBA season with Atlanta Dream.

Okot's selection as the 13th overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft was a significant achievement for the Kenyan-born basketball star. Her success in the WNBA has made her a role model for young Kenyan girls who aspire to play basketball professionally. The President and First Lady's attendance at the game is expected to inspire more Kenyan girls to pursue careers in sports.

The President and First Lady's visit to the game was a unique moment for Okot, who got to share a selfie with them on the court after the match. The photo opportunity was a chance for Okot to capture a special moment with her compatriots' President and First Lady. The President's support for Okot is seen as a boost to her career and a testament to the government's commitment to promoting sports in Kenya.

The Atlanta Dream's win over the New York Liberty was a notable achievement for the team, with Okot playing a small but significant role in the game. The President and First Lady's attendance at the game was a show of support for Okot and the Atlanta Dream. The game was an exciting moment for basketball fans in New York, with the President and First Lady adding to the excitement.

The President's support for Okot and Kenyan sports is expected to have a positive impact on the development of basketball in Kenya. The government's investment in sports infrastructure and programs is seen as a key factor in promoting sports in the country. Okot's success in the WNBA is a testament to the potential of Kenyan athletes to compete at the highest level.

Key points

• President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto attended a WNBA game to support Kenyan-born basketball star Madina Okot.
• Okot played for the Atlanta Dream against the New York Liberty at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
• The President's support for Okot is seen as a boost to her career and a testament to the government's commitment to promoting sports in Kenya.